Equatorial Guinea has implemented a strict new policy mandating the immediate dismissal of any government official involved in a sex scandal, a decision following recent revelations about Baltasar Ebang Engonga, former Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF). Engonga, widely known as “Bello,” reportedly recorded over 300 sextapes, including footage from his office, allegedly featuring married women and prominent single women. This scandal has not only led to his immediate removal from office but has also raised serious concerns about the moral conduct of public officials.
For days, erotic videos involving Engonga have circulated on social media, sparking outrage across Equatorial Guinea. Currently imprisoned on allegations of corruption, Engonga is said to have filmed these scenes with the consent of the women involved, which shields him from legal charges related to coercion or assault. In the videos, Engonga is seen engaging in unprotected sexual acts with several women, some of whom are married to influential figures within the country. The footage, reportedly filmed in hotel rooms, private residences, and even in his office, highlights the brazen disregard for ethical standards in office.
The Prosecutor’s Office has now taken further action, launching an investigation into possible public health implications. Attorney General Anatolio Nzang Nguema has ordered medical tests to determine if Engonga has any sexually transmitted infections that could endanger others, underscoring that this is a matter of public health. The presence of unprotected sexual acts in the videos, which have been widely circulated, has led the authorities to focus on the potential health risks posed to the women involved and their partners, as well as the broader community.
The Attorney General’s Office, in reviewing the images, has confirmed that consensual sexual relations do not constitute a crime under national law unless coercion or violence is present. However, Nzang Nguema emphasized that cases of sexual abuse and assault still warrant immediate reporting, and encouraged victims to step forward. While the women in the videos are not seen as victims under the law, the Attorney General stressed the importance of an environment that allows anyone subjected to violence or abuse to report safely and receive support.
The Attorney General has asserted that the risks of uncontained transmission of diseases make this case critical, with the potential repercussions extending beyond Engonga and the women involved to the broader community. Equatorial Guinea’s leadership has sent a clear message that public officials are not above the law and that any actions threatening ethical standards or public health will face immediate and severe consequences.
